Fin's Fish Guide
The Multi-banded shelldweller (Neolamprologus multifasciatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
At about 4 cm the multi-banded shelldweller is one of the smallest cichlids in the world and is endemic to Lake Tanganyika. The species lives on sand flats strewn with empty snail shells, into which each fish retreats and lays its eggs. Although large colonies gather, each pair holds a very small territory around a few closely spaced shells. The fish is silvery-grey with numerous narrow cross-bands and feeds on zooplankton drifting slowly above the colony. Because of its striking digging and nesting behaviour the species is popular with aquarists.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Multi-banded shelldweller?
The Multi-banded shelldweller has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. One of the smallest cichlids in the world; lives and breeds in empty snail shells in large colonies.
Where does the Multi-banded shelldweller live?
The Multi-banded shelldweller lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Multi-banded shelldweller get?
The Multi-banded shelldweller grows to a maximum of about 4 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Multi-banded shelldweller dangerous to humans?
No, the Multi-banded shelldweller is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Multi-banded shelldweller edible?
The Multi-banded shelldweller is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neolamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Multi-banded shelldweller?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Multi-banded shelldweller is one of 12,519 species in the app.